Rosy Assumptions on Retirement Timing Invite Rude Financial Surprise

There has been a general trend toward working longer in recent years. Shutterstock

CHICAGO—Working longer can boost the odds of a secure retirement—that is an article of faith in retirement planning circles these days.

But many people do not wind up working as long as they expect or hope. And baking in too much optimism about career longevity to your retirement plan can take a heavy toll.